Staff Correspondent

Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) has conducted Air-to-Ground Firing Exercise-2024 (Exercise Flash Point) on Wednesday at Rasulpur Firing Range in Tangail district.

Chief of Air Staff of the BAF, Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan, was present during the exercise as Chief Guest and observed various activities of the exercise.

Besides, higher officials from different ministries, high-ranking military officials from the Bangladesh Army, Bangladesh Navy, Bangladesh Air Force, and local administrative personnel also observed the event.

The primary objective of this exercise is to showcase the operational capabilities of the BAF while maximizing the utilization of its assets. By displaying tactical maneuvers, precision targeting, and coordinated firepower, the event aims to evaluate the effectiveness of existing BAF resources and infrastructure. All types of aircraft in the BAF inventory, including fighter jets, transport aircraft, and helicopters participated in this exercise, says an ISPR media release.

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This prestigious event is part of the BAF's commitment to maintaining the highest standards of operational readiness, ensuring that the pilots are equipped with the skills necessary to respond effectively in real-world combat situations to keep the sky free from intruders.

Various fighter aircrafts including MiG-29B/UB, F-7/FT-7 and K-8W aircraft showcased their precision strike capabilities and agility in combat scenarios. Additionally, AN-32 transport aircraft demonstrated their effectiveness in logistical support, troop deployment, and airlift operations. Helicopters like Mi-17, AW-139 and Bell-212 also demonstrated their adaptability in various combat roles such as air-to-ground firing, close air support, search and rescue, troops insertion, and tactical mobility.

This exercise by BAF aircraft will provide an invaluable opportunity for BAF pilots and crew to showcase their technical expertise, tactical acumen, and precision in task-intensive environments. Participants will gain hands-on experience in accuracy by targeting and delivering munitions which is essential for maintaining readiness in diverse contingencies.

While the primary role of BAF is counter air operations, providing close air support to its sister services is also one of its essential tasks. Moreover, this exercise will not only sharpen their skills but also help refine tactics and improve operational efficiency, ensuring that BAF pilots remain at the forefront of modern combat capabilities.